GOVERNOR Ralph DLG Torres is hopeful that Marianas Southern Airways, the CNMI’s newest interisland airline, will open doors for more airlines to fly to and from the Commonwealth.
He said there is always a need for more reliable interisland transportation as well as job opportunities for community members.
Torres also thanked Star Marianas Air for operating in the CNMI throughout the years, providing much-needed interisland transportation.
He noted that when Star Marianas shut down their operations during the holidays, it was a challenging time for the CNMI.
Now, with the entry of Marianas Southern Airways, Torres said there could be a more competitive playing field that may result in better services, cheaper prices, and more reliable flights.
Marianas Southern Airways will soon announce its initial schedule, launch its website and open ticket sales.
It will offer over 90 weekly flights serving Saipan, Tinian, Rota, and Guam and, through a Southern Airways interline agreement with United Airlines, provide the ability to make a seamless reservation from Tinian, Rota, or Saipan to anywhere in the United network.
Marianas Southern Airways is a joint venture between Saipan’s MP Enterprises and Southern Airways Express, one of America’s largest regional airlines.
It will operate the all-new Tecnam P2012 Traveler aircraft, known as the world’s most advanced twin-engine turbocharged piston aircraft.
The nine-seat aircraft features generous luggage allowances to complement its sleek and modern interior design, which includes LED reading lights, overhead air conditioning controls, and ergonomic seats with a USB port, armrest, and cupholder for each passenger.
